DIMAPUR, AUG 12 (NPN): The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) has announced that the second edition of the Pangolin Football Cup will be held in Meluri, from October 26 to 31, 2026. Following the success of the inaugural tournament in Senapati, Manipur, last year, the conservation-themed football event is set to bring together communities, youth and tribal institutions in the fight against pangolin trafficking and wildlife crime.
Organised in partnership with the Meluri Range Sport Association, the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of Nagaland, Meluri Village Council, civil society organisations and local youth associations, the tournament aims to blend sport with conservation awareness. The initiative seeks to highlight the importance of pangolins and other endemic wildlife, while recognising tribal leaders and community institutions that have taken steps to protect the species and discourage hunting and trade.
Over the past two years, the project has successfully engaged 252 Tangkhul Naga villages, the United Sangtam Likhum Pumji (USLP), the Poumai Naga and other tribal apex bodies across Manipur and Nagaland. “Building on the experience of the first Pangolin Cup, the Meluri edition seeks to strengthen the connection between youth, traditional institutions, communities and wildlife conservation through the shared passion for football,” said Monesh Singh Tomar, lead of the Countering Pangolin Trafficking Project. WTI CEO Jose Louies added, “The Pangolin Cup brings together the energy of young people, the passion for football and the commitment of local communities to protect wildlife. This year, we invite everyone to come together with one message: Unite for Football, Stand for Pangolins!”
The Wildlife Trust of India has called upon football personalities, wildlife influencers and conservation champions from Northeast India to support the campaign. Sponsorship and partnership opportunities remain open, with interested organisations and individuals encouraged to reach out via wccd@wti.org.in. For more information, One may contact at 9582490170 or email media@wti.org.in. WTI, established in 1998, has a track record of saving over 57,000 animal lives, preventing more than 2,000 potential elephant accidents, training 24,000 frontline forest staff and protecting nearly 1,200 sq. km of natural habitat. Its Countering Pangolin Trafficking Project continues to disrupt illegal wildlife trade networks in border regions, mobilising communities and strengthening enforcement.
Thursday, August 13, 2026